At first glance, the ADF Core Order of Ritual can seem daunting and, if one has seen some sample scripts, rather lengthy as well. That said, I love the structure, its power, and its ability to put me in touch with the cosmos and my Kindreds. I really wanted to do the ADF Core Order of Ritual on a daily basis, not only to invite that power into my life everyday upon rising, but to know the ADF Core Order of Ritual by heart. The following text is the result of that effort.

On average, this ritual lasts anywhere between 7-10 minutes. I’ve simplified portions of the ritual text while still including every step of the ADF Core Order of Ritual. Offerings are also simplified into a select few items that are manageable to restock, and easy to keep by my home shrine. The goal here was effectiveness and efficiency. It took me awhile to find the right balance, but I believe I’ve achieved my goal, which was to form a meaningful, daily practice. Now, I’m at a point where I can perform this ritual from memory (improvising when needed), while learning the ADF Core Order of Ritual in the process. This script is from a Wednesday ritual.

1. Initiating the Rite

[Three knells of a bell]

[Two Powers Meditation] (Here, I draw the waters and power of the Earth up through me, and then let the Sky power shine down through me. This acts as a grounding and centering, while also serving as a first step in connecting me to the cosmos.)

2. Purification

Say: “The waters of the earth flow within me.”
[Take a dab of water from the Well and touch it to forehead]

Say: “The light of the sky burns within me, cleansing me and making me whole.”
[Place hand safely over the flame to feel its warmth]

Say: “I have come to honor the Kindreds, with gifts to give and blessings to receive.”

5. (Re)Creating the Cosmos

Say: “And so it came to pass that Odin and his brothers slew the giant Ymir, and from the giant’s body they fashioned the world. From Ymir’s blood comes the Seas and waters surrounding me, from his skin the Land beneath me, and from his skull the Sky above me.”

Say: “Hail to the Fire, light of the heavens, shining Asgard. Sacred Fire burn within me!”

Say: “Hail to the Well, the Triple Well, deep beneath the earth. Sacred Well flow within me!”

Say: “Hail to Yggdrasil, the World Tree, whose roots and branches connect to all Nine Worlds. Sacred Tree grow within me!”